Oriel College is one of the oldest colleges in Oxford, founded in 1326. Oriel began as “The House or Hall of the Blessed Mary at Oxford,” quickly coming to be known as Oriel from an early-14th-century manor house called ‘La Oriole’ granted by King Edward II. Its central quadrangles contain some of the best-preserved historic buildings at Oxford, including four medieval halls and the college chapel, consecrated in 1642.
Oriel’s alumni include several eminent historical figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh, Thomas More, John Henry Newman, A.J.P. Taylor, and two Nobel laureates. 
 
Interesting facts...
There is a “secret tunnel” accessible from Second Quad that leads to Oriel’s hidden-away Island Site—a secluded courtyard tucked out of sight of visitors and many students.